What Happens When You Mix Dilaudid and Alcohol?

Dilaudid is one of countless opioid-based medications prescribed for pain relief. While this medication can successfully help patients overcome post-surgery discomfort, they can quickly become dangerous if abused or taken with other substances, including alcohol. Despite the risks, many people continue to drink while taking Dilaudid for both recreational and medical reasons. As these substances interact in the body, the risk of overdose, dependency — and worse, death — increases significantly. 

If you or someone you know is using Dilaudid and alcohol in an unhealthy way, the good news is that help is just a phone call away at The Recovery Village. Contact us today for more information on how you or your loved can get on the path to rehabilitation and wellness. 

What Is Dilaudid ?

Dilaudid is an opioid medication used to address moderate to severe pain, typically after major surgeries or operations. Also referred to as hydromorphone, this particularly potent drug is often only prescribed to people who already have a tolerance to opiates. Dilaudid works in a similar way as medications like morphine, hydrocodone and oxycodone, making users feel mellow, relaxed and uncommunicative. Its strength, combined with its euphoric effects and chemical predisposition to addiction, makes Dilaudid a commonly abused opioid. 

What Are the Side Effects of Dilaudid and Alcohol Abuse?

Even when prescribed by a doctor, many medications come with the potential for unfavorable side effects, especially if they are misused. Dilaudid is not an exception to this rule. When used on its own, it can cause a variety of uncomfortable or even deadly side effects. When taken with alcohol, the drug becomes significantly more dangerous. 

The following are just some of the short and long-term effects of dilaudid abuse and alcohol abuse:

Dilaudid Abuse Symptoms

• Frequent drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Weak or shallow breathing
• Trouble urinating
• Stomach pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation

Alcohol Abuse Symptoms

• Blackouts
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• Insomnia
• High blood pressure

Dangers of Mixing Dilaudid and Alcohol

There are many different reasons that a person would mix Dilaudid with alcohol. If someone is taking Dilaudid regularly for pain, they may accidentally consume alcohol after taking their normal daily dose of medication. Others intentionally consume both substances at the same time to enhance their euphoric effects. 

While this may feel good in the short-term, it can have disastrous immediate and long-lasting effects on the body. As both of the substances mingle, their sedative properties increase. This leads to side effects like extreme drowsiness, lightheadedness, trouble concentrating and impaired judgement. Alcohol can also increase the rate that Dilaudid is released into the body, raising its concentration in the blood to potentially lethal levels. Because of these potentially deadly side effects, you should never consume Dilaudid and alcohol together without first consulting a doctor or medical professional.  

Treatment for Dilaudid and Alcohol

You may be reading this as someone who’s familiar with the potential dangers of Dilaudid and alcohol use, and are interested in seeking help. Or, you may just know someone who’s struggling with addiction to both of these substances, and you’re wondering how you can get them the help they need. Regardless of your involvement with these drugs, contacting a dedicated addiction professional is the first step toward healing and renewal. 

An addiction to both Dilaudid and alcohol can be difficult to overcome without the help of a dedicated team of nurses, doctors, counselors and psychologists. At The Recovery Village, our full-service staff has helped countless people across the country break free from the chains of addiction. Help is closer than you think. Contact us today for more information.